Authorities in the Isle of Man have raided the offices of two iGaming companies in central Douglas as part of a “large-scale” international money laundering investigation.
According to Isle of Man Today, the operation, carried out last Wednesday (12 March), involved Ableton Prestige Global Limited and Amiga Entertainment Limited.
Police confirmed that two individuals were arrested during the raid and have since been released on bail.
A spokesperson for the Isle of Man Constabulary stated: “The Isle of Man Constabulary have executed a search warrant at the premises of Ableton Prestige Global Limited and Amiga Entertainment Limited in central Douglas in relation to a large-scale international money laundering investigation. Two individuals have been arrested and released on police bail.”
Authorities emphasised the significance of their efforts to combat financial crimes, highlighting the broader implications of money laundering.
“Money laundering is not a victimless crime and can be generated from other, appalling offences such as drug, arms and human trafficking, environmental crime, modern slavery, bribery, and corruption,” the spokesperson added.
“It is imperative that the Isle of Man authorities and industry across all sectors remain vigilant and mitigate vulnerabilities that can be exploited by criminals.”
Licence surrendered
Ableton Prestige Global had previously surrendered its e-gaming licence with the island’s Gambling Supervision Commission in April 2024. The company had held the licence since September 2018.
The GSC confirmed later (21 March) to NEXT.io that it was aware that the offices of a former licence holder were searched under a warrant as part of an ongoing money laundering investigation.
“The GSC are committed to working with partner agencies to keep both the jurisdiction and the sector safe and will continue to do so,” it stated.
“In the global fight against money laundering, the GSC are dedicated to working against those seeking to use the sector to legitimise proceeds of crime.
“By actively working in partnership with other agencies to combat illegal activities such as cybercrime, fraud, human trafficking, animal trafficking and drug crime, the GSC strive to protect the vulnerable globally and will continue to strengthen its action against anyone seeking to misuse the sector.”
Authorities have not yet disclosed further details regarding the investigation.
A Radio Free Asia report from last year alleged that both companies had been linked to money laundering activities.
However, these claims have not been independently verified. The report was part of a broader investigation into alleged financial crimes involving various entities, including the Prince Group.
The Prince Group, a Cambodian conglomerate, has denied any connection to Amiga and Ableton. Corporate records reportedly indicate ownership links.
NEXT.io has also reached out to Amiga Entertainment and Ableton Prestige for comment.
